Key points
• Leaders reaffirm Pakistan’s commitment to minority rights and religious harmony
• Festivities underway at Nankana Sahib, Kartarpur, and Punja Sahib
• Pilgrims from across the world join Gurpurab celebrations
ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended warm greetings to the Sikh community in Pakistan and around the world on the 556th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.
President Zardari described Guru Nanak Dev Ji as a “messenger of peace, tolerance and equality,” adding that Pakistan is proud to be the custodian of gurdwaras linked to the Guru’s life, including Nankana Sahib and Kartarpur Sahib.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed the government’s resolve to safeguard minority rights and preserve all places of worship. He said Guru Nanak’s message of unity, service, and harmony “remains a beacon for building a peaceful and just world.”
Festivities Across Holy Sites
Across Punjab, thousands of pilgrims from India, Europe, and North America joined the Gurpurab celebrations at Nankana Sahib, Kartarpur, and Punja Sahib, Hassan Abdal. The gurdwaras were illuminated with lights, as devotional hymns, kirtan, and langar (community meals) marked the day.
Live television coverage captured the joyful scenes, while government agencies provided transport, security, and medical facilities to the pilgrims.
Faith and Diplomacy
Observers say Pakistan’s facilitation of Sikh pilgrims reflects its commitment to interfaith harmony and the preservation of shared South Asian heritage. The celebrations have become both a spiritual observance and a symbol of cross-border goodwill.
